it may be worthwhile

USAGE SUMMARY

"it may be worthwhile" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in situations when you are considering the potential benefits of a certain action. For example: "I've been thinking about taking a course in Spanish, and it may be worthwhile if I can use it for my job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In this economy, it may be worthwhile to apply anyway.

The New York Times

If the CRP test gets more people to follow that advice, then it may be worthwhile.

Harvard University

It may be worthwhile to consider an internal committee with an advisory board.

University of California, Berkeley

IN anticipation of Valentine's Day, it may be worthwhile to consider the therapeutic value of chocolate.

The New York Times

Finally, it may be worthwhile to join a celiac support group.

The New York Times - Health

If there is premature cardiac death, it may be worthwhile to eat soy.

The New York Times - Food

In short, it may be worthwhile to shop around for the right place to play.

The New York Times - Arts

Nevertheless, it may be worthwhile to list a few of the most conspicuous possibilities.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For that reason, it may be worthwhile in certain settings to presort the waste stream.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It may be worthwhile fixing the exchange rate by speaking to a foreign exchange specialist.

Independent

Still, it may be worthwhile to shop around for other lenders.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it may be worthwhile" when you want to suggest that an action or consideration could lead to a positive outcome, but without stating it as a certainty. It is useful in professional or academic writing when offering a suggestion or recommendation.

Common error

Avoid using "it may be worthwhile" when the benefits are already well-established and certain. Opt for stronger, more affirmative language if the outcome is highly probable. For example, don't say "it may be worthwhile" to study for an exam if passing requires it. Instead say "it is important" or "it is necessary".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it may be worthwhile" functions as a modal expression used to suggest that a particular action or consideration might be beneficial or advantageous. According to Ludwig, the expression is correct and usable in written English. It introduces a degree of uncertainty while highlighting potential value.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it may be worthwhile" is a versatile phrase used to suggest potential benefits or advantages of a particular action or consideration. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in a variety of contexts, ranging from news and media to academic and scientific writing. It's register leans toward neutral and formal, making it suitable for professional communication. When using this phrase, remember to be mindful of the certainty of the outcome, and avoid using it when the benefits are already definitively established. Consider exploring synonyms like "it could be beneficial" or "it would be worthwhile" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it would be worthwhile

Adds a degree of emphasis to the potential value or benefit.

it could be beneficial

Emphasizes the potential advantages or positive outcomes.

it might prove valuable

Highlights the potential usefulness or importance.

it may be advantageous

Focuses on the strategic or competitive edge it could provide.

it may be profitable

Specifically suggests a potential financial gain or return.

it may be judicious

Implies that the action is sensible and well-considered.

it may be prudent

Suggests caution and careful management of risks.

it may be advisable

Indicates that the action is recommended or suggested.

it is worth considering

Shifts the focus to the act of deliberation and evaluation.

it may be helpful

Emphasizes the assistance or support that the action could provide.

FAQs

How can I use "it may be worthwhile" in a sentence?

Use "it may be worthwhile" to suggest an action that could have a positive result. For example, "It may be worthwhile to invest in employee training to improve productivity."

What are some alternatives to "it may be worthwhile"?

You can use alternatives like "it could be beneficial", "it might prove valuable", or "it would be worthwhile" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "it may be worthwhile"?

It's appropriate to use "it may be worthwhile" when you're not entirely sure about the benefits but you believe there's a good chance the action will be helpful or advantageous.

Is there a more formal way to express "it may be worthwhile"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "it may be advantageous", "it may be judicious", or "it may be prudent".